Pieces of the jigsaw are missing from the Keep Britain Working report
23 September 2026, For immediate release
The Campaign for Disability Justice welcomes the ‘Keep Britain Working’ report, but is concerned that key elements are missing from the jigsaw.
Everyone needs opportunities at work, but Disabled people are being blocked from careers by practical issues, stigma and misunderstanding.
The Government has focused on pushing Disabled people to work. The Keep Britain Working report finally recognises that employers must upskill and be willing to employ Disabled workers and retain staff when we become Disabled.
Plans for inclusive workplaces are a positive vision but require practical things like accessible public transport to get to work, flexible start and finish times, and an end to delays for work accessibility equipment. The report focuses on keeping a job, but finding accessible work is the first hurdle for many Disabled people, and should be reflected in Government approaches.
Disabled people told the Campaign for Disability Justice:
‘I can't drive and the buses have changed times and route, making it harder to get home, so I keep having to pay for a taxi.’
‘I can’t apply for any role other than fully remote positions … jobs say ‘remote role’ it then says still needs to come into the office for meetings or x days a week’
Challenging stigma against Disabled people is key to making a more inclusive and equal world, but the report suggests limited action to address this. There are Disabled teachers, shop assistants, nurses, baristas, and barristers, but fear of being stigmatised stops people from being open about who they are at work. They worry their skills and commitment will be questioned if they tell people they are Disabled.
To reduce stigma, the Government programme must include Disability awareness training and practical advice for employers, as recommended by the Disability Employment Charter. The more that employers understand conditions and impairments, the more Disabled people will be able to be their whole self at work, and workplaces will be better for everyone.
Caroline Collier, CEO of the Campaign for Disability Justice said:
‘Employment involves two parties. Disabled people who can work tell us that they’re being turned away at the door or not allowed to progress. We need practical measures and training to help employers upskill and embrace the talent of the Disabled workforce.’
Across the UK, there are organisations run by and for Disabled people. Keep Britain Working should work with Disabled people and connect with organisations and companies with an almost wholly Disabled workforce, who have the skills and experience to bring the report findings to life.
Ends
Interviews with a range of Disabled people with experience of this issue are available. Please contact us
About the Campaign for Disability Justice
The Campaign for Disability Justice is a Disabled-led network of over 2500 Disabled people and allies, and 50 organisations. We work collaboratively to create a world where Disabled people have security, and opportunities to work and thrive, in a society that respects and values us.
The Campaign is administered by Inclusion Barnet. Registered Charity Number 1158632